Ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent belonging to the
group of propionic acid derivatives, inhibits the enzyme cyclo-oxygenase
(prostaglandin synthesis) which catalyzes the transformation of unsaturated
fatty acids to prostaglandins. One assumes that the inhibition of the
prostaglandin synthesis is the cause for the analgesic, antipyreti, and
anti-inflammatory action of the drug.